Chapter 1113 - Confrontation and Negotiation (2/2)

However, in an instant, a dense electrical light shot out from Manison’s eyes. He had activated (Virtual Paramount]!

Weng!

The virus core’s virtual soul was instantly locked, unable to escape its shell that had yet to even form fully.

Manison’s movements were smooth without any hiccups. He quickly took out the specially made containment device and sucked the virus core in.

This containment was specially made to suppress the virus core’s abilities. It could perfectly contain it. As long as the virus core was caught in it, it would never escape.

Han Xiao’s pupils constricted. Old Man Manison got it!

However, the next instant, the other Lord’s Avatars that followed attacked at the same time. Highly dense beams passed him by and headed right toward Manison’s back.

Boom!

Manison had expected this. Layers of shields appeared and blocked the bombardment, causing violent explosions.

Using this force, he quickly got away from the others, at the same time turning toward them, with the containment that carried the virus core still in his hands.

The others surrounded and confronted Manison.

“Be careful. If you guys destroy the container, my efforts will have gone to waste.”

Manison was not angry at all and spoke calmly.

A direct member of the Federation of Light, Defender Romo, said with a deep voice, “Manison, hand over the virus core. You should know that this kind of thing can’t be leaked.”

The remote projections of the inspectors including Sidreun appeared. He said with a solemn tone, “That’s right. Your Excellency Mechanic Emperor, you’re a sensible person. The three Universal Civilizations will certainly reward you generously for capturing the virus core, but this thing cannot remain in the hands of someone else.”

“Hehe, you don’t have to be so nervous. After I’m done studying it, not only will I hand turn the virus core over, I’ll even share the technology I’ve obtained through it.”

Manison was very casual and did not panic at all.

Han Xiao did not speak. He looked around and nodded secretly. This was completely within his expectations.

In his previous life, the person who obtained the virus core had probably obtained it secretly. Now, however, the situation was completely different. The virus core was a hot potato. No matter which Mechanic possessed it, they would instantly be in a difficult situation and become the target of the rest of the Mechanics. At the same time, the three Universal Civilizations would certainly ask for the virus core from them.

The battleships were of no help in capturing the virus core, so why did the three Universal Civilizations deploy fleets at the trap nodes? Clearly, they were not there to deal with the virus core but to deal with them, the Beyond Grade A Mechanics!

The Lord’s Avatars present all had short-range hyperdrive abilities. Han Xiao even had Void Hyperdrive, but no one used it. This was because the fleet had activated spacetime stabilization anchors at the trap nodes long ago, preventing anyone from escaping.

And this was the exact reason Manison stayed to talk, or he would have escaped the moment he succeeded.

The only way to leave with the virus core was… to fight a way out!

However, although the three Universal Civilizations and the other Mechanics wanted to take away the virus core, they were worried about destroying the container, so they all held back.

The three Universal Civilizations hoped to take back the virus core from Manison through a negotiation. They were even mentally prepared for Manison to ask for an outrageous price.

“Mechanic Emperor, the Virtual Mutiny Virus is a strategic weapon that can threaten the entire universe. It will only be safe in the hands of the three Universal Civilizations. We won’t allow any risk to exist, so no matter what, we have to take the virus core today. You should know the severity of this matter.”

The inspector of the Arcane Church’s tone was firm.

Manison did not respond instantly but looked at the avatars of the other Mechanics. He then said slowly, “See that? Anyone who gets the virus core will have to face this. Are you guys still planning to fight for it?”

“Honestly, I don’t have a lot of interest in the virus core. After all, I’m not a Virtual Mechanic… However, I wouldn’t mind exchanging this for more good stuff.” Kant chuckled.

“Don’t look at me. As long as I get the virus core, I’ll regain my freedom, so I’m on the side of the church,” Mechanical Catastrophe Francisco said.

“I’ll fight for something with all I’ve got as long as there’s a chance… Teacher, you taught me that.” ‘Mechanic Empress’ Mornisa’s tone was calm.

Everyone expressed their attitude. Their reasons were different, but they all had the same resolve.

In the end, Manison’s eyes stopped on Han Xiao.

“Black Star, what about you?”

Han Xiao did not answer it directly but replied with a mocking tone, “You didn’t ask around just to chat, did you? Are you stalling for the time, or are you trying to find a temporary ally?”

Hearing this, Manison smiled. “Black Star, you know me well… That’s right, I need an ally to deal with this tough situation together. You and I both know the situation the Beyond Grade As are in. We’re on the same side. I plan to study the Virtual Mutiny Virus not only for its technology but also to add a layer of insurance for the Beyond Grade As. If you’re willing to help me, I won’t mind studying this technology together with you.” Everyone looked at Han Xiao with different emotions.

Han Xiao was not convinced at all. He casually said, “Sounds good, but I have a feeling you’ll go back on your word.”

“Hehe. You might not believe me, but I need someone to take this risk together with me. Two people having this technology suits my interests more, so this time, I will keep my word.”

“Tsk, that’s all words. No matter how good they sound, they’re just that.”

“Then, how do you want me to prove it?”

Han Xiao pointed at the container in Manison’s hands, smiled, and said, “Since you’re willing to study it together with me, who’s holding the virus core won’t make a difference. Give the device to me. I’ll take the risk, and you’ll help me to get out of this. That way, I’ll believe that you’re sincere and not just toying with my feelings.”

“I’m okay with that, but will you be willing to study it with me when it’s in your hands? How can I be sure you won’t go back on your words?” Manison asked the same thing.

“As you just said, I need someone to share the pressure too.” Han Xiao shrugged.

Manison stayed silent for a few seconds. As the atmosphere became heavier and heavier, he finally spoke slowly and shocked everyone.

“Since that’s the case… then why not?”